I am tattoo-less. I've had many a conversation about this fact with my
inked friends, but both my indecisiveness and long-term thinking get in
the way of marking my flesh. This doesn't means that I have anything
against your body art. And after catching a screening of Wanted, I have a new appreciation for cinematic tattoos. Angelina wears her tattoos well. I will give her that.
I've decided that instead of heading to a tattoo parlor, I should strategically plan an acting career that allows me to have awesome fake tattoos. Because, let's face it, movies have given us some pretty cool inked characters.
My Top 5 on-screen tattoos:
- Guy Pearce in Memento. The tattoos are practically a character. If you haven't seen this gem of a film, be aware that you will probably want to watch it twice. In a row. For the most plot-essential use of ink, Memento takes the top spot by far.
- Wentworth Miller in Prison Break. Again, tattoos with a purpose. Perhaps I'd consider getting tattooed to help rescue a loved one from a maximum-security facility.
- Johnny Depp in the Pirates flicks. Note that many of the tattoos are real. Because Johnny's hardcore. I've decided that I will get a tattoo if I become a pirate. I promise.
- Brad Pitt's tribal arm/hand tattoo in the Ocean's franchise. Didn't notice it? Exactly. That's why it's so cool. It just peaks out of his expensive cuffs. Oh, and another shout-out to Brad in Snatch, for proving that Angelina's not the only well-inked member of the household. There will be some fun conversations in that home as their brood become teenagers....
- Popeye's anchor tattoos. Because he's Popeye. No explanation needed.
Not-so-honorable mention: the "Sweet" and "Dude" tattoos in Dude, Where's My Car? I apologize to everyone who impulsively branded themselves with phrases that are no longer relevant in your lives. I find your pain quite hilarious.
Oh, I know, I know, I didn't mention Clooney in From Dusk 'Till Dawn. Who's on your list of incredible inked ones?
Nadine Bells
**Read more articles by Nadine Bells**
